A Romantic Escape to the Enchanting Town of Sintra

Enchanting Escapes in Sintra

Today was a day of contrasts, a journey through the opulent heights of royalty, the intimate corners of a countess's retreat, and the austere depths of spiritual contemplation. Sintra, you continue to surprise and delight! Jean-Pierre and I set out early, eager to uncover more of your hidden treasures, and what a day it turned out to be.

Our first stop was the National Palace of Pena, a kaleidoscope of colors perched high on a hill, visible for miles around. The palace is a testament to 19th-century Romanticism, and it felt like stepping into a fairy tale. The mix of architectural styles—Moorish, Gothic, Manueline—created a whimsical, almost fantastical atmosphere. We wandered through the staterooms, each more lavish than the last, imagining the royal family going about their daily lives. The views from the terraces were simply breathtaking, stretching out over the lush Sintra hills and all the way to the Atlantic coast. I couldn't help but feel a sense of awe at the sheer grandeur of it all.


Discover the National Palace of Pena in Sintra, a majestic castle blending rich history with stunning architecture, set in a breathtaking landscape.
The crowds were definitely present, a reminder of Pena's popularity, but even that couldn't diminish the magic of the place. We took our time exploring every nook and cranny, snapping photos, and soaking in the atmosphere. Jean-Pierre, ever the history buff, was fascinated by the palace's construction and the stories behind each room. I was particularly taken by the Queen's chambers, with their intricate details and stunning views. It's easy to see why this is considered one of the Seven Wonders of Portugal.

The beauty of Sintra lies not just in its majestic landmarks, but in the quiet moments of discovery found within its hidden corners.

After the grandeur of Pena, we sought a more intimate experience at the Chalet of the Countess of Edla. Tucked away in a quieter corner of the park, this charming chalet offered a glimpse into the private life of King Ferdinand II and his second wife, Elise Hensler, the Countess of Edla. The chalet, inspired by Swiss alpine architecture, was a stark contrast to the opulent palace. It felt cozy and inviting, with its cork-lined walls and nature-inspired motifs. The Countess, an opera singer, clearly had a keen eye for design, and the chalet reflected her artistic sensibilities.


Explore the romantic Chalet of the Countess of Edla in Sintra, a historical gem surrounded by breathtaking gardens and stunning landscapes.
We strolled through the surrounding gardens, admiring the exotic plants and serene landscapes. It was easy to imagine the royal couple finding refuge here, away from the pressures of court life. The chalet exuded a sense of peace and tranquility, a place where love and art could flourish. Jean-Pierre and I wandered hand in hand, enjoying the quiet beauty of the gardens, a perfect contrast to the bustling palace. The Chalet of the Countess of Edla was a testament to their romance, a haven built amidst the splendor of Sintra.

Our final destination for the day was the Capuchos Convent, a world away from the royal extravagance we had experienced earlier. Nestled deep within the Sintra hills, this Franciscan monastery offered a stark and humbling contrast. The convent, built in the 16th century, was designed for monks seeking a life of austerity and contemplation. The tiny, cork-lined cells, the low doorways, and the rough-hewn stone walls spoke of a life stripped bare of all luxuries. It was a place where nature and spirituality intertwined.


Explore the tranquil beauty and rich history of Capuchos Convent in Colares, a serene retreat nestled in the heart of Portugal's stunning landscape.
As we walked through the convent, we couldn't help but feel a sense of reverence for the monks who had lived here. Their dedication to a life of simplicity and devotion was truly inspiring. The convent's remote location and austere design created an atmosphere of profound peace, a world away from the hustle and bustle of modern life. The air was thick with the scent of damp earth and ancient stone, and the silence was broken only by the rustling of leaves and the occasional birdsong. The Capuchos Convent was a reminder of the power of faith and the beauty of simplicity.

Before heading back to our hotel, we stopped by H'art Portugal, a local shop I had read about. It was a treasure trove of locally crafted souvenirs and unique treasures. I picked up a few small gifts for friends back home, each one a reminder of our time in Sintra. The shop owner was incredibly friendly and helpful, sharing stories about the local artisans and their crafts. It was a lovely way to end our day of exploring.


Explore H'art Portugal, a charming gift shop in Sintra offering unique souvenirs and local crafts that embody the spirit of your travels.
For breakfast, we enjoyed a delightful meal at Cantinho Gourmet. The pastries were fresh and the coffee was strong – just what we needed to start our day of exploring. Lunch was at Metamorphosis, where we enjoyed a light and flavorful meal. For dinner, we dined at Tulhas, a charming restaurant with traditional Portuguese cuisine. The seafood was incredibly fresh, and the atmosphere was warm and inviting. We savored every bite, reflecting on the day's adventures.


Experience authentic Portuguese cuisine at Cantinho Gourmet, where every dish tells a story amidst the beauty of Sintra.

Experience exquisite Portuguese cuisine at Metamorphosis in Sintra - where tradition meets modern flavors.

Experience authentic Portuguese flavors in Sintra at Tulhas gastropub – where tradition meets culinary excellence.
The contrasts between the Pena Palace, the Chalet of the Countess of Edla, and the Capuchos Convent offered a rich tapestry of experiences, each contributing to our understanding of Sintra's unique character. It was a day of beauty, history, and contemplation, a reminder of the diverse and fascinating world we live in. As we headed back to Sintra Marmoris Camélia, Jean-Pierre and I talked about our plans for tomorrow. We are looking forward to visiting Sintra Mitos & Lendas, and Praia da Ursa. I'm particularly excited about Praia da Ursa, as I have heard it is one of the most beautiful beaches in Portugal. I'm also keen to try A Raposa for dinner; I've heard great things about their traditional Portuguese dishes. I'm sure tomorrow will bring even more wonderful experiences, and I can't wait to share them with you all! Good night from Sintra!


Discover comfort and elegance at Sintra Marmoris Camélia, your ideal base for exploring the picturesque landscapes and historic sites of Sintra.
Oh, I almost forgot! I was so caught up in the day's adventures that I completely forgot to pack an umbrella. It seems like I'm always forgetting something! Luckily, Jean-Pierre had one, so we were able to stay dry despite the occasional drizzle.